The summary provided below describes key changes to Dartmouth’s Title IX policies that went into effect on August 20th, in accordance with the US Department of Education’s updated Title IX regulations, released on May 6, 2020. These changes were necessary in order for Dartmouth to maintain its status as a federally funded educational institution. Please reach out to SPCSA at spcsa@dartmouth.edu or the Title IX office at TitleIX@dartmouth.edu with any further questions, comments, or concerns. This information is also accessible in a graphic format, created by SAPA, here.

Additionally, SPSCA held two Open Forums to discuss the new regulations and allow students to voice their concerns. The consolidated notes from these forums can be found here.

Title IX Prohibited Conduct

There is now a narrower definition of sexual harassment prohibited by Title IX. Quid Pro Quo harassment and any form of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking as defined by the Clery Act is considered sexual harassment under Title IX. In a change from previous guidelines, to violate Title IX, any other unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature must be “so serious, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to education. In another major change, Title IX prohibited conduct only covers sexual harassment involving Datmouth-affiliated persons and on campus-owned properties. This means that sexual harassment taht occurs on study abroad programs, at off campus apartment, and at unrecognized Greek houses will not be considered sexual harassment as defined by Title IX.

Dartmouth’s Prohibited Conduct 

However, Dartmouth’s community standards continue to prohibit any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature– the previous definition of sexual harassment.

Changes to the Formal Resolution Process

If you pursue a formal investigation for a Title IX complaint, live cross-examination by representatives of each party will be permitted at the hearing. Like before these Title IX changes, if you pursue a formal investigation for a complaint of Dartmouth prohibited sexual misconduct, written cross-examination will be permitted.

Resources

Formal Dartmouth resources previously available, including WISE, SAPA, the Title IX office, Dartmouth College Health Services and Counseling, the Student Chaplain, and the Student Wellness Center will continue to be available to all students affected by gender-based violence regardless of whether it falls under Title IX or Dartmouth prohibited conduct.